In a stunning display of speed and power, 21-year-old Jadumani Singh announced the arrival of a new generation in Indian boxing by defeating the seasoned Amit Panghal in the semifinals of the ongoing Boxing Nationals in Greater Noida. The bout, held on January 9, 2026, saw the young pugilist from Manipur outclass the former World number one, a two-time Olympian and 2018 Asian Games gold medallist.
A Changing of the Guard in the Ring
The highly anticipated clash was a tale of experience versus youthful exuberance. Jadumani, representing the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB), started aggressively, catching Panghal off guard with a flurry of punches. Although the 30-year-old veteran used his defence effectively and landed some jabs, the first round clearly belonged to the younger boxer.
The second round proved decisive. Jadumani's punches grew more accurate and powerful, one even opening a cut on Panghal's forehead. The toll was evident as Panghal, known for his speed in lower weight categories, began to fade. By the third round, Jadumani expertly evaded Panghal's attacks while picking his shots to secure a convincing victory.
"I have trained with Amit bhai in the past. He is a legend of the game," a respectful Jadumani said after the win. "Last year before the Paris Olympics, I sparred with him and learnt a lot... Today was a good win for me." SSCB head coach Hari Beniwal called the second round "passing the baton in the real sense," acknowledging that the next generation is ready to take charge.
Strategic Move to 55kg for Olympic Dreams
This victory is particularly significant as it comes just a month after Jadumani moved up from the 50kg to the 55kg weight class. This category is the lowest weight for boxing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, making the shift a strategic long-term play. Jadumani had a breakout 2025, winning two World Cup medals and reaching the World Championships quarter-finals at 50kg.
Coach Beniwal explained the rationale behind the move: "One is the Olympics and the other is his difficulty in cutting weight for the 50 kg category." He admitted that Jadumani might face a height disadvantage in the new class but compensates with powerful punches and speed. Jadumani himself feels stronger, stating the 55kg limit is closer to his natural weight, making the cut easier.
The Road Ahead and a Fierce Domestic Rivalry
Jadumani's next challenge is the national final against his training partner, Pawan Bartwal. Both boxers train at the Army Sports Institute in Pune and have been sparring partners for three years, setting the stage for a thrilling and tactical final. "We know each other’s games very well," Jadumani noted.
This 55kg category is poised to be one of the most competitive in Indian boxing this year, with major events like the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games on the horizon. While Jadumani and Bartwal (who also won two World Cup medals in 2025) are now at the forefront, Coach Beniwal hasn't counted out the experienced Panghal just yet, suggesting he can still "spring a surprise anytime."
The final on Saturday is now one of the most awaited bouts of the Nationals, potentially setting the tone for Indian men's boxing in the 2026 season and beyond, as the country builds towards the Los Angeles Olympics.
